HONOLULU (HI Now) - At the heart of Oʻahu lies Ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻo Ānuenue, a Hawaiian immersion school known not only for its academic excellence but also for its unwavering commitment to preserving and uplifting the Hawaiian language. Leading this charge is Babā Yim, principal of Ānuenue, who continues to push boundaries in education by ensuring that Hawaiian remains the living, breathing foundation of every program on campus—including sports.
For years, Ānuenue has set the standard for integrating ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi into all aspects of school life. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or during afterschool clubs, the Hawaiian language is the primary medium of communication. This dedication has cultivated a strong sense of identity and cultural pride among students, families, and the broader community.
One of the school’s standout achievements is its Hawaiian medium sports programming. Athletics at Ānuenue aren’t just about competition—they’re about carrying forward ancestral knowledge and values through the language of the land. Coaches and players communicate entirely in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, reinforcing fluency in fast-paced, real-world settings. From soccer to track and field, the school has shown that sports can be a powerful tool for language revitalization.
Adding to this innovation is Ānuenue’s Hawaiian medium Jiu-Jitsu club, where students train in self-discipline and martial arts while learning and speaking exclusively in Hawaiian. This unique program blends cultural empowerment with physical skill, creating a space where students strengthen both body and identity. It’s just one example of how the school is creating opportunities for ʻōpio to thrive in all areas of life—athletically, intellectually, and spiritually.
What sets Ānuenue apart is its deep commitment to community inclusion. Programs and events aren’t limited to students; they actively involve ʻohana and local residents, ensuring that the Hawaiian language is not just learned but lived. From hula festivals to weekend sports clinics, every gathering is another chance to honor and perpetuate the language.
Principal Babā Yim and the team at Ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻo Ānuenue continue to model what’s possible when education is rooted in culture, language, and aloha. Their innovative approach proves that ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi is not only a language of the past but a vibrant, evolving force shaping Hawaiʻi’s future—on the field, in the dojo, and beyond.
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